Tribute to Tam Fiofori: Keen Chronicler of Nigerian Culture
Bruce Onobrakpeya pays tribute to Tam Fiofore “UNCLE TAM” (1942-2024). Nigerian Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic
By Bruce Onobrakpeya
Tam Fiofore “UNCLE TAM” (1942-2024). Nigerian Filmmaker Visionary Historian Critic
Tam Fiofori, was a visionary filmmaker, photographer, and writer, whose indelible mark enriched Nigeria's artistic realm profoundly.
Tam Fiofori's creative brilliance shone brightly across our cultural landscape, yet our society's nurturing of his genius fell short. In comparison to his equally talented peers in more supportive settings, Tam's full potential may not have been fully realized.
To honour his legacy and support future luminaries, our society must establish genius grants and specialized funds. These initiatives empower gifted individuals to create impactful contributions, fostering a nurturing environment where their creativity can flourish. Such support not only enhances their productivity but also enriches our collective cultural fabric.
Nigeria remains a reservoir of exceptional talents like Tam, yet many struggle to realize their full potential due to inadequate support structures. Despite their occasional reclusiveness or rebellious nature, these geniuses deserve our steadfast protection.
Remembering kindred spirits like Ayodele Awojobi, Ola Balogun, Tijanni Mayakiri, Jimi Solanke and Oyiza Adaba underscores the importance of organizations like CORA, dedicated to celebrating our true talents.
Tam's absence leaves a void among close friends and fellow participants at the Harmattan workshop, organized by the Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation, where his presence was deeply felt and cherished. His legacy as a confidant, friend, and artistic luminary who was a keen Chronicler of Nigerian culture, will endure, inspiring generations to come.
Bruce Onobrakpeya resides in Lagos. He is UNESCO Human Livng Treasure, Founder and Foundational Member of the Annual Harmattan Workshop
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ORLANDO JULIUS IS LAID TO REST
Nigeria's Foremost Saxophonist Sir Orlando Julius Exits In A Colourful/Musical Ceremony
Nigeria's Foremost Saxophonist Sir Orlando Julius Exits In A Colourful/Musical Ceremony
Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State Nigeria
Words: Oyiza Adaba
Photos: Dede Mabiaku/Africa-Related
Orlando Julius Aremu Olusanya Ekemode, known professionally as Orlando Julius or Orlando Julius Ekemode was a Nigerian saxophonist, singer, bandleader, and songwriter closely associated with afrobeat music.
The multi-instrumentalist - who as worked with everyone from Louis Armstrong, Lijadu Sisters, Fela Kuti, Herbie Hancock, Grover Washington Jr., Hugh Masekela etc - passed in his sleep on April 15, 2022 at the age of 78.
His devoted wife Aduke Latoya Ekemode remained ALWAYS by his side.
Read more about his rich life, legacy and his contributions to adding definitions to the music genres that we know today as Afrobeat, Highlife and Afro-Soul.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando_Julius
REST in POWER!